Preventing drug abuse really begins with preventing drug use. Some
children as young as third and fourth grades feel pressured to try drugs-especially
gateway drugs like alcohol, nicotine (tobacco), and marijuana. Research
shows that each of these can increase the chance that the user will turn
to even more dangerous drugs like crack or other forms of cocaine, and
stimulant or depressant pills. The average age of the first use of illicit
drugs (including alcohol) is 12 years!

Constructive communication is one of the most effective tools you
can use in helping your child avoid drug use. The very act of regular two
way communication shows your child that he or she means a great deal to
you.

What To Communicate

The facts about how drugs harm people young people especially.

Physical harm slowed growth, impaired coordination, etc.

Social harm-being disconnected from society, loss of friendships,
loss of interest.

The fact that you do not find drug use acceptable. Many children
say their parents never stated this simple principle. Don't forget to point
out that these drugs are against the law.

The fact that there are lots of positive, drug free alternatives,
and you will help your children explore them.

The fact that you place high value on your child's good, special
qualities. Qualities that drugs can and will destroy or diminish.

The power to say no. A clear message about the behavior you expect;
your trust in your child to live up to your hopes; the belief that your
child, knowing right from wrong, is smart enough to choose the right and
say no to drugs.

Ways To Communicate

Calmly and openly discuss frankly and without anger the facts about
drugs.

Don't exaggerate. The facts are chilling in and of themselves.

In terms of subject matter, not personalities.

Challenging current friends might lead to defensive or defiant behavior.

Face to face, exchanging information and understandings.

Be an active listener and let your child tell you what he or she
knows about drugs, what his or her own experiences have been, what fears
or concerns already exist.

Through "teachable moments". In contrast to a formal sit-down lecture,
use a variety of situations-television news, TV dramas, books, newspapers,
local situations.

Capitalize on one point. You'll have opportunities to make other
points. Ask the child how he or she would have reacted, what else might
have been done or might have happened.

As an ongoing dialogue. Communication won't be as effective if the
subject is brought up in one massive lecture. Anti-drug use messages should
be an ongoing theme when you talk with your child. The content and intent
should be repeated as an accepted family value.

But be sure you encourage and allow for two-way communication.

Remember that you set the example. Your child will compare your actions
with your words and be guided accordingly. If you choose to drink, never
mix drinking with driving or any other activity requiring skill and coordination.
If you smoke, it would help you and your child if you could quit. And don't
use illegal drugs. Period!

Be creative! You and your child might act out various situations
in which someone tries to pressure someone else to take a drug. Figure
out two or three ways to handle each situation and talk about which is
best.

Role-playing is one way to practice decision-making skills.

Understanding Reasons Kids Use Drugs

Kids may turn to drugs for one or more of these reasons:

For fun

To do what friends are doing to fit in

To get through the day

To escape pain in their lives

Out of boredom

Because of curiosity

To take risks

Unaware of the effects

Because a role model did it

How Can I Tell If Someone Is Using Drugs?

Identifying possible signs of drug use may help prevent further use.
Possible signs: